Unlocking the Secret to Success: Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace
As a leader in the skincare industry, Kara Brothers has had her fair share of interviews with potential employees. But what sets her apart is her focus on a crucial soft skill: emotional intelligence. Research has consistently shown that emotional intelligence is the key predictor of success in the workplace, yet it’s often overlooked in favor of technical skills and experience.
The Intangible Qualities of Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence is built on qualities like empathy, self-awareness, and adaptability – traits that don’t always fit neatly onto a resume. So, how do you measure something that can’t be quantified? Brothers relies on thought-provoking questions during interviews to gauge a candidate’s emotional intelligence.
The Question That Stumps Them All
One question, in particular, often leaves candidates struggling: “What held you back in your last workplace?” The goal is to uncover how adaptable and coachable someone is, and whether their ego gets in the way of effective collaboration. Brothers wants to know if a candidate is aware of their strengths and weaknesses, and how they impact those around them.
The Art of Self-Awareness
The best responses strike a balance between honesty and accountability. For example, a candidate might admit to struggling with leading a meeting, but then explain how they reflected on their performance, sought feedback, and implemented a change to improve the outcome. This level of self-awareness is essential for navigating workplace challenges and building strong relationships with diverse personalities.
Cultivating Self-Awareness
You don’t have to wait for your next job interview to start building your self-awareness. A simple three-step exercise can help you cultivate this skill: take time to reflect on your actions and their impact, seek feedback from others, and be open to change and growth. By doing so, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the complexities of the workplace and build strong, lasting relationships.
The Payoff of Self-Awareness
Building self-awareness takes time and effort, but the payoff can be substantial. With self-awareness, you’ll be better equipped to navigate conflicts, communicate effectively, and build strong relationships that drive success. So, take the first step today and start cultivating your emotional intelligence – your career will thank you.
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